2018 Gear Update
In July of 2018, I made the switch from Canon to Sony. I replaced my complete Canon DSLR [5D MK IV] and L-lenses and moved to the Sony A7R III. I have been thinking about this for some time, but hesitant due to the cost of switching (and the fact that my Canon system is just over 2 years old). My experience on my thru-hike of the Wonderland Trail last year really prompted me to begin thinking how I can practically take a full-frame camera and lenses into the backcountry while minimizing weight and bulk.
There were two primary drivers for the switch (1) lighter weight and less bulk and (2) a more capable system with better dynamic range (although I doubt I will ever use the delta difference between my Canon and Sony systems). In this update to my gear list, I also updated the peripheral equipment that I use.
Camera Gear and Accessories:
Sony A7R III
Initial impressions are like everyone else. Great camera, some time to learn the new menu system.
Sony GM 16-35 f/2.8
Sharp and opens-up night photography options.
Sony GM 24-70 f/2.8
Great image quality and sharpness. Like the 16-35, it is pretty heavy (and expensive).
Sony GM 100-400 f/4.5 – 5.6
Solid telephone that is super-sharp through its full focal range. Necessary for landscapes in the PNW.
Sony G 70-300 f/4.5 – 5.6
My lightweight option for the backcountry. Not as sharp as the GM 100-400, but fits the bill.
LowePro 500 AW II
This is great for going out in the local area. It holds all my gear and has back-panel access.
Mammut Trion Pro 50 with Large / Medium / Small F-Stop ICU
For technical hikes when some additional gear is required. The ICU depends on what gear.
Osprey Atmos AG 65
Less bulk means that I can use a 65L bag for multi-day backpacking. Small ICU holds camera and lenses.
Primary Tripod: Really Right Stuff TVC-34L
Probably the best tripod money can buy – but this thing is heavy!
Primary Ballhead: Really Right Stuff BH-55 Ballhead
See note on RRS TVC-34L.
Travel / Backcountry Tripod: Really Right Stuff TQC-14
A lightweight option with four sections and a center column for extra reach.
Travel / Backcountry Ballhead: Really Right Stuff BH-30
Very good and stable ballhead for its size. I highly recommend it.
RRS L Bracket
As with other RRS gear, this thing is solid but there are cheaper options.
Breakthrough Photography Filters
I recently switched from Lee to Breakthrough. This system is amazing!
Rite In The Rain Notebook
This is a local company that makes notebooks that can be used in any weather.
Video and Associated Equipment:
Sony a6500
An APS-C sized sensor option with the same E-Mount as the A7R III. Great camera for stills and video.
Sony 16-70 OSS f/4
Works great with the a6500 as a “walk around” lens and for stills and video.
Canon M50 with 15-45 Lens
This is my main vlogging camera. It has a mic input and I wouldn’t be too upset if it gets trashed on a shoot.
Canon G7X MK II
My main B-roll camera. This thing has been dropped and bashed repeatedly. It still works great.
Zoom ZH1 H1 Portable Digital Recorder
Great for windy conditions or when the subject is further away from the camera base unit.
Rode Lav Mic
A great mic can make all the difference. Add a “dead cat” to dampen wind noise.
Rode VideoMicro Microphone
Attaches to the Sony a6500, but unfortunately the G7X II doesn’t have an external mic input.
DJI Mavic Pro Drone
I don’t use this too much (and usage is limited in many areas), but it does add dramatic b-roll to vlogs.
If you are considering these types of trade studies, Matt Payne has an excellent resource on his website. He has a “Sony Gear Selector Tool” that enables you to compare different camera / lens combinations from Sony, Nikon, and Canon.